'97-'00 E39 Questions....

[Hi-psi]

Guys,

Use to have a 325i, which was my first BMW. Loved the car, but was just a bit too small, and grew tiresome of it as a daily driver due to it being a 5spd. So I sold, and purchased a '95 Lexus SC300. I've grown tired of the Lexus being a 2dr. I'm in the market for a 5-series. What's everyone's opinion on the different ones? I would want either a 528i or 540i. Unless I found a smokin' deal it seems as though the 540's are a little over the range of what I want to spend on a daily driver. My question is this, with the 5-series being substantially heavier than my old 3-series, will I be satisfied with the performance of the 528? I'm not looking for raw performance, I've got other cars for that. I put a lot of highway miles on my daily traveling on the interestate, and I don't want something that when I press the accellerator to pass someone, I'm sitting there waiting on something to happen. Also, as far as gas mileage, how are the 540's & 528's? Common issues to look for? Years to stay away from?

Thanks in advance for any help or info.

[DZeckhausen]

What's your budget? That will pretty much determine the E39 models and year breakpoints you can afford.

In 2001, BMW introduced the 530i which has more grunt than the 528i. Depending on your budget, you may consider this model. In the long run, it may even save you money because it has the mid-model facelift that many 1997-2000 E39 owners spend lots of money adding to their rides. This consists of the "angel eye" headlights, round foglamps, a different bumper, and body-colored trim.

If you're looking for strong passing power at highway speeds, the 540i is your only option, especially since you are seeking an automatic. The 528i has decent torque for around town, but climbing hills or passing on the highway is where it falls way behind the V8 model.

In stock form, the handling probably won't thrill you, especially if you buy a non-sport model with 15" wheels (528i) or 16" wheels (540i). Try to find a sport model with 17" wheels, then add in the M5 rear swaybar for $110 in parts and 20 minutes labor.

[Hi-psi]

I'm a cheap a.s.s so right now, about $14,000 or less is my budget. Hehe...I'm just a deal shopper. I found a '97 540i with 99k miles earlier in the week for $11,900, and was planning to go look at it this weekend, but it was sold yesturday. Suprise, suprise at that price. Just found a super clean '97 528i with 118k for $12,000. As far as styling, I like the way the '97's look, so no issues staying around the '97/'98 years. As far as handling, I'm more interested in a smooth, quiet highway ride. I would be putting aftermarket wheels/tires, at least 18 inch, so that would improve the handling. I may go try to find each model locally, even if they're not what I'm looking for, to test drive and see. Also, I'm making this more difficult by wanting silver as well. :thumbup: